Wild Island Family Adventure Park is a unique attraction in Nevada, but its status as the state's only water park doesn't mean it has low standards. The park offers a dizzying array of indoor and outdoor activities and is open all year round. Some facilities, such as water slides, are seasonal but there is no shortage of alternatives to compensate.
The summer months are the busiest so it’s best to arrive early if you are visiting at this time. The Black Widow is located on the opposite side of the park to the entrance and is an easy introduction to a day of wet and wild indulgence. The Red Viper is a more advanced challenge and not for the faint hearted, as it involves a six-storey free fall.
If you’re still looking for a buzz, head straight to the Scorpion Challenge, a four-storey half pipe. More competitive visitors will also want to challenge friends to a tube race on Fire and Ice. Bigger groups are also catered for on Zulu, an 80-metre bumpy slide which is a fun challenge for everyone.
Younger children or anyone who is looking for relaxation rather than pure white knuckle thrills, can enjoy the wave pools and meandering river of the shallow Hurricane Cove. There are height restrictions on some of the rides, which should be a consideration if you are travelling with young children. You may also need to accompany them in some cases.
After drying off, wind down on the miniature golf courses and bowling alleys. If you are still craving speed, there’s an excellent go-kart track. All age groups will find something to suit them in the park, from ball pools to laser mazes.
Wild Island Family Adventure Park is a year-round attraction but the water park is only open between mid-May and early September. However, the weather is a consideration at all times of the year, with some rides closing if the weather is poor. It’s best to check the website first. You are allowed to bring your own food to the park, but fast food outlets are also available on the site. The park is located off I-80 in Sparks, Nevada, about a 15-minute drive from Reno.
